A Better Community Fund supports Lock 9 performance pavilion

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The Piqua Community Foundation is proud to announce that it has made a grant from The A Better Community Fund to support the performance pavilion at the City of Piqua’s newly redeveloped Lock 9 Park. Foundation representatives made the gift presentation at the Lock 9 Launch Celebration concert on July 27.

The gift supports the construction of and programming of the performance pavilion, which will be named the Lock 9 Treviño Performance Pavilion in honor of the fund’s founder, Dr. Julian Treviño. A sign now adorns the front of the stage, commemorating the gift.

"I am so proud to call Piqua my hometown. Supporting the performance pavilion was a perfect fit for a big-time music lover like me. Generations of citizens from Piqua and surrounding communities will gather here to enjoy a wide variety of performances and activities in the company of their friends and neighbors. I hope this park will be a catalyst for more exciting projects throughout our city."
Dr. Julian Treviño
Founder of The A Better Community Fund of The Piqua Community Foundation

Lock 9 Park is a one-acre space on the banks of the Great Miami River and at the intersection of the Great Miami River Trail and Ohio-to-Indiana Trail. The park now includes the Performance Pavilion for entertainment opportunities, water feature with fountains, green space for leisure activities and convenient access to Piqua’s downtown district.

The Piqua Community Foundation gift totals $500,000 from The A Better Community Fund over five years as the park is launched and enjoyed by the community.

"The Piqua Community Foundation encourages charitable giving to benefit the citizens of Piqua and provides a variety of methods for donors to help fulfill their charitable giving wishes. I am proud that The Foundation is able to continue its long tradition of supporting the Piqua community through grant and scholarship programs with this important contribution.
Kalette N. Hittle
Executive Director of The Piqua Community Foundation

Piqua City Manager Paul Oberdorfer noted that Dr. Treviño’s generosity makes possible the Performance Pavilion and the entertainment that it will host for the community.

"Dr. Treviño and The Piqua Community Foundation are a part of an extraordinary group of contributors who helped bring the redevelopment of Lock 9 Park to reality. We also extend our sincere gratitude to Cargill Foundation, Neils A. Lundgard and Ruth Lundgard Foundation, Ohio Department of Development, Ohio Department of Natural Resources, State of Ohio, Upper Valley Medical Center Foundation and SRM Concrete."
Paul Oberdorfer
Piqua City Manager

For more information on contributing through The Piqua Community Foundation, visit piquacommunityfoundation.org.

For more information on the Lock 9 Park, visit piquaoh.gov/lock9. A listing of upcoming events at the Treviño Performance Pavilion is coming soon.

The Foundation launches fall grant cycle

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The Piqua Police Department accepts an award from The Piqua Community Foundation during the spring grant cycle for the establishment of a K-9 program. Pictured, from left to right, are Randi Pearson, Jim Oda, Sharon Semanie, Lieutenant Kiersten Brisset, Deputy Chief Marty Grove, Executive Director Kalette N. Hittle, Dr. Mike Tinkler and Beth Kazer.

The Piqua Community Foundation is pleased to announce the launch of its fall grant cycle and is now accepting standard grant applications, with a deadline of September 30, 2024.

Organizations with a 501(c)(3) or equivalent tax-exempt status are invited to apply for project-based grants. Applications must focus on projects that are religious, educational, scientific, literary, or charitable in nature, with a strong emphasis on benefiting the residents of Piqua. The impact on the local community is a key criterion for funding consideration.

The fall 2024 distribution is part of The Foundation’s semiannual grant cycles from unrestricted funds. The Foundation’s Distribution Committee carefully reviews all applications and makes recommendations to the Board of Directors for final approval.

For detailed grant program guidelines and to access the application, please visit piquacommunityfoundation.org/grants. For questions regarding eligibility or the application process, please email info@piquacomunityfoundation.org or call The Foundation office at 937-615-9080.

The Foundation looks forward to supporting the incredible work being done in the community and helping to bring positive change to Piqua.

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G. William Hartzell Community Grant cycle open through July 31st

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Representatives from New Path Outreach proudly accept an award for their food pantry from Randi M. Pearson, Committee Chair, as part of The G. William Hartzell Charitable Fund's 2023 grant cycle.

George William “Bill” Hartzell was not only the leader of the Hartzell family businesses for many years, but was also well known for his active participation in community activities and organizations. His commitment to making a positive impact on the world around him continues in his memory through a bequest made as a result of his estate planning. This bequest allows The G. William Hartzell Charitable Fund to perpetuate his generosity to the community through grants and scholarships.

Each year, the fund provides unrestricted funding to charitable organizations that serve Piqua residents. The grants are unique in their simplicity of the application process and the unrestricted nature of the funds, allowing organizations to spend the money in ways that best serve their needs.

George William "Bill" Hartzell

“We are honored to carry on Bill Hartzell’s legacy of community support through this fund. His vision and generosity continue to make a lasting impact on the lives of Piqua residents.”

Kalette N. Hittle, Executive Director of The Piqua Community Foundation

Charitable organizations that serve Piqua residents are invited to apply for funding from The G. William Hartzell Charitable Fund of The Piqua Community Foundation. The deadline for applications is July 31.

To learn more about the grant guidelines and access the application, visit piquacommunityfoundation.org/grants/hartzell.

Generosity Blooms: Piqua Community Foundation distributes over $75,000 in spring grants

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The Piqua Community Foundation recently awarded over $75,000 in grants during its spring cycle, embodying The Foundation’s motto: “When you share with us, we share with many.” These funds will support various initiatives aimed at enhancing the lives of Piqua residents.

The distribution is part of The Foundation’s semiannual standard grant cycles, drawing from unrestricted funds. The Foundation’s Distribution Committee conducts comprehensive reviews of the grant applications and presents recommendations to the Board of Directors for final approval.

The organizations awarded 2024 spring grants are:

  • Big Brothers Big Sisters Miami Valley – MENTOR Piqua
  • CASA/GAL of Miami County, Inc. – Ohio CASA conference for volunteers
  • Elizabeth’s New Life Center – early pregnancy services
  • Friends of Mainstreet Piqua – Mills Brothers Mural
  • Friends of the Piqua Parks – Fountain Park shelter replacement
  • Friends of the Piqua Public Library – 11th annual Holiday Cabaret
  • Forest Hill Cemetery – section markers
  • Greene Street Day Care & Preschool – phone system upgrade
  • Habitat for Humanity of Miami & Shelby Counties – tools for home repair van
  • Isaiah’s Place – welcome baskets for new foster families
  • Lehman Catholic High School – music clinicians
  • Piqua Catholic School — listening station for 2nd grade
  • Piqua Catholic School – flexible seating for 5th-8th grades
  • Piqua Catholic School — The Center for Early Learning Preschool – drawing tablets
  • Piqua City Schools – Art Department – art display panels
  • Piqua City Schools – Music Department – band commission project
  • Piqua City Schools — Piqua Central Intermediate School – author visit
  • Piqua City Schools – Piqua Central Intermediate School – Garden Tribe revitalization
  • Piqua Community Kitchen – kitchen sink
  • Piqua Police Department – establishment of a K9 program
  • STEM Studio 22 – Lego robotic kits
  • The Edison Foundation – Edison State Community College – chemistry lab data printer
  • The Edison Foundation – Edison State Community College – 50 Next Capital Campaign nursing program expansion
  • The Salvation Army – Summer Lunch Program
  • Upper Miami Valley Young Life – summer camp
  • Upper Valley Career Center — calming strips for students
  • YWCA Piqua – safety lighting renovation

The Piqua Community Foundation awarded grants across various project sectors, including education, health & safety, environment, arts & culture, recreation, and youth & community development.

Last week, members of the Distribution Committee of The Foundation visited four recipients to present the grant awards and gain insight into their programs and needs.

Deputy Chief Marty Grove and Detective Kiersten Brisset received a fully funded grant award on behalf of the Piqua Police Department for the establishment of a K9 program.

Piqua Police Department
“This funding from The Piqua Community Foundation will enable the Piqua Police Department to move forward with the K9 program. We’re hoping to have that implemented later on this year. It will bring a K9 to the City of Piqua to assist our officers in their daily routines and endeavors.”
Deputy Chief Marty Grove
Piqua Police Department

Additionally, awards were presented to the Friends of Mainstreet Piqua for support of the Mills Brothers Mural, slated for completion this summer. The Salvation Army of Piqua received funding to support their Summer Lunch Program, while the Piqua Community Kitchen was granted resources for the purchase of a new kitchen sink, enhancing their capacity to serve the community through weekly meals.

Friends of Mainstreet Piqua
The Salvation Army
Piqua Community Kitchen

The Piqua Community Foundation’s next grant cycle has a September 30 deadline. To learn more about the grant and scholarship programs of The Piqua Community Foundation, visit piquacommunityfoundation.org/grants.

Join Us in Cultivating Generosity

Embrace the spirit of sharing and community empowerment by supporting The Piqua Community Foundation's unrestricted fund, because "When you share with us, we share with many." Your generosity not only impacts the community but enriches the lives of many Piqua residents. Donate to our unrestricted fund and let's watch as the seeds of generosity bloom into a flourishing community together.

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The Foundation honors Hinsch Community Service Awardees

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The Piqua Community Foundation presented local volunteers with The Scott J. and Margaret W. Hinsch Community Service Awards on Monday.

Scott J. & Margaret W. Hinsch

The recipients, listed below, received the awards during surprise presentations:

  • Jim Vetter, Maria Bubp, & Joe Wilson – Neighbors Helping Neighbors, an initiative of Piqua Neighborhood Improvement, Inc.
  • Marlene (Marty) Davis – Bethany Center

The recipients received a glass plaque to commemorate the occasion, and the nominating nonprofit agency received a $2,000 unrestricted grant from The Hinsch Family Fund of The Piqua Community Foundation, in recognition of the outstanding volunteer(s). The Hinsch awards are offered annually to an individual or small group that exemplify the legacy of service that Scott J. & Margaret W. Hinsch left in the Piqua community.

This year, the committee selected two awardees from a competitive field of nominees. Cari Beth Noah, granddaughter of the awards’ namesakes, presented the awards to recognize their legacy of service to the Piqua community. Cari Beth Noah also represented her parents, John and Marsha Hinsch, and her aunt, Dr. Linda Hinsch Campbell, who founded the fund and were unable to attend the presentations.

“The Hinsch Family appreciates volunteers in all walks of life,” remarked John & Marsha Hinsch and Dr. Linda Hinsch Campbell. “The two annual Scott J. and Margaret W. Hinsch Community Service Awards are given to recognize individuals or small groups who have made a significant, positive contribution to a Piqua charity. The awards are based on an “annual” effort, not a “lifetime” effort. A small group of Piqua residents serve on the Committee that selects the annual winners. These awards started in 2016 and will continue long into the future. Congratulations to the 2024 Award Winners.”

The Scott J. & Margaret W. Hinsch Community Service Award winner – Jim Vetter, Maria Bubp, & Joe Wilson

Joe Wilson, center, poses with members of The Hinsch Family Fund of The Piqua Community Foundation and representatives from Piqua Neighborhood Improvement, Inc.

Chuck Peltier, vice president for Piqua Neighborhood Improvement, Inc., nominated Vetter, Bubp, and Wilson for the group’s outstanding work with Neighbors Helping Neighbors. Throughout 2023, the group was able to enhance the appearance of four homes in the community and successfully rectified violations on one properly, all without imposing any financial burden on the homeowners.

“The three nominees planned the activities to improve the properties of Piqua homeowners who did not have the physical or financial abilities to do the work,” Peltier wrote. “This program (Neighbors Helping Neighbors) not only helps homeowners in need, but the volunteers receive the benefit of helping Piqua citizens.”

The Scott J. & Margaret W. Hinsch Community Service Award winner – Marty Davis

Marty Davis, center, with representatives from the Bethany Center and The Hinsch Family Fund of The Piqua Community Foundation.

Shawn Rickert, executive director of the Bethany Center, nominated Davis for her dedication to the center’s mission of providing essential services to those most in need. Davis oversees the food pantry, dedicating hundreds of hours to assisting in feeding over 10,000 people during 2023. She manages inventory, maintains records, and leads other volunteers in the operation of the food pantry.

“Marty’s contribution to the food pantry is invaluable,” Rickert wrote in his nomination. “She arrives early and leaves late, ensuring that the community’s food insecurity is addressed.”

The Hinsch Family Fund committee, the nominators, and representatives from the nominating organizations presented the awards Monday. To watch livestream videos and view more photos from the awards presentations, visit The Piqua Community Foundation’s Facebook page.

Standard grant cycle open through March 31

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The Piqua Community Foundation is accepting standard grant applications for its spring grant cycle through March 31.

The Foundation accepts project-based grant applications twice a year from nonprofit organizations serving Piqua residents with a mission that is religious, educational, scientific, literary or charitable in nature. Applicants must provide documentation demonstrating the organization’s 501(c)(3) or equivalent tax-exempt status.

The spring 2024 distribution is part of The Foundation’s semiannual grant cycles from unrestricted funds. The Foundation’s Distribution Committee makes recommendations to the Board of Directors for approval based on the grant application and review process.

The Piqua Community Foundation’s grant program guidelines and application form can be found by visiting piquacommunityfoundation.org/grants. Prospective applicants are encouraged to review the guidelines and then confirm their organization’s eligibility by emailing info@piquacommunityfoundation.org or calling 937.615.9080.

Representatives from RT Industries proudly stand beside one of the newly acquired ADA accessible vans, a result of grant funding from The Piqua Community Foundation. These vehicles play a crucial role in fulfilling their mission to provide dependable transportation for all individuals they serve.

The Foundation opens 2024 scholarship programs

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The Piqua Community Foundation has opened its 2024 scholarship season and welcomes applications from local students.

Scholarships through The Foundation are made possible by fund donors who value continuing education and wish to give back to the community. Each of the scholarships offered is distinct in its guidelines directed by the donor when the fund was established.

“Last year, The Foundation distributed $132,000 in new and renewal scholarship awards in support of local students furthering their education,” said Foundation Executive Director Kalette N. Hittle. “We are honored to act as the gateway for these impactful scholarship programs.”

Scholarship information is available through local schools’ guidance counselors or by visiting piquacommunityfoundation.org/scholarships. Questions about The Foundation’s scholarship programs may be directed to info@piquacommunityfoundation.org or 937.615.9080.

Foundation names Kalette N. Hittle new executive director

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Kalette N. Hittle

The Piqua Community Foundation Board of Directors announces the hire of a new executive director to lead the organization.

Kalette N. Hittle will join The Foundation alongside current director Michelle Perry beginning January 10. Perry has accepted the public information officer role with the City of Piqua. Perry and Hittle will work cooperatively through January 25 to ensure consistency for the organization and the Piqua community.

“We are excited to welcome our new enthusiastic leader with a heart for the Piqua community. Kalette’s background in related fields and passion for giving back made her the board’s top choice for this position. She and Michelle will complement each other well as they work together to make a smooth transition in leadership.”

— Andrew Snyder, president of The Foundation Board of Directors

Hittle, a native of Darke County and graduate of both Defiance College and Kent State University, holds dual bachelor’s degrees in athletic training and wellness and an associate degree in physical therapist assistant technology. Her career encompasses impactful roles, from serving as the director of rehabilitation at Genesis Rehabilitation Services to her most recent position as an annually contracted faculty member at Sinclair Community College’s physical therapist assistant program. Her experience includes curriculum process improvement, innovative teaching methods, business development and fostering interpersonal relationships through direct patient care and student mentorship.

Hittle’s passion for the community she calls home extends beyond her professional life. She has resided in Piqua for 10 years with her husband, Jeremie Hittle, who serves as the Piqua City Schools treasurer, and her daughter, Kaylie, a freshman at Piqua High School. Actively involved in the community, Hittle has previously served on the St. Mary’s Catholic Church Festival Committee and currently holds a board member position for the Tecumseh Woods Swim Team and volunteers her time at many Piqua City School events.

“I am thrilled to join The Piqua Community Foundation and have the opportunity to serve the community I call home. Being a part of an organization that plays such a vital role in enhancing the wellbeing of our community is truly inspiring. As a natural giver in my prior work in the health care and education sectors, I am excited to now be able to pour into the Piqua community and make a meaningful impact.”

— Incoming Executive Director Kalette N. Hittle

The Foundation was founded in 1993 as a 501(c)(3) organization by a small group of citizens interested in investing in their community. Its mission is to encourage charitable giving to benefit the citizens of Piqua and provide a variety of methods for donors to help fulfill their charitable giving wishes.

The Foundation offers opportunities to contribute to the community through restricted and unrestricted gifts of any size. The organization then offers grants to programs and projects whose missions are religious, scientific, literary, educational or charitable and align with the guidelines of each fund.

“We have organized this transition in leadership of the Piqua Community Foundation to minimize disruption of our services and to maximize the transfer of knowledge,” said Emily E. Shawler, immediate past president of The Foundation Board of Directors. “The Board of Directors believes that as we transition our director role from Michelle to Kalette that we can continue the high level of professionalism and responsibility for which The Foundation is known.”

For more information about the Piqua Community Foundation and charitable giving in the Piqua community, please explore the website or call 937.615.9080.

Foundation celebrates 30th anniversary, grant recipients at annual meeting

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Andrew Snyder & Emily E. Shawler

The Piqua Community Foundation celebrated its 30th anniversary during the Life Trustees annual meeting on November 14 with grant recipient recognition and a look at the impact of The Foundation over the past three decades.

Since inception in 1993, The Foundation has distributed more than $21.5 million in grants and scholarships across its funds, representing projects and programs that make Piqua an even better place to call home.

Doug Metcalfe of SafeHaven Inc. shared with the attendees how numerous grant awards from The Foundation in recent history have impacted the organization. The organization provides adults with mental health support and provides a structured day of education, meals and activities.

The meeting serves as the annual gathering and organizational recap for The Foundation and included a tabulation of voting by

Secretary/Treasurer Andrew S. Monnin, a financial report from Investment Committee chair Tony Wendeln and remarks about the past year from President Emily E. Shawler.

“I am truly grateful to be surrounded by people who care for Piqua and feel fortunate that we have pushed forward over the past 30 years to strengthen our hometown.”

— Emily E. Shawler, Piqua Community Foundation Board of Directors President

Distribution Committee chair Randi M. Pearson recognized organizational representatives receiving grant awards for programs serving Piqua residents in its spring and fall cycles in 2023 as well as through the 2022-2023 Pitch Piqua initiative. He noted that The Foundation has distributed $190,899 from the unrestricted funds of The Foundation in 2023.

Nominating Committee chair Steven K. Staley presented the slate of candidates for reelection. The Life Trustees elected Molly Karn to fill an unexpired term concluding December 31, 2024, and Jeff Pedro Jr. to fill an unexpired term concluding December 31, 2025. They also reelected the six incumbent directors who will serve three-year terms beginning January 1, 2024: Mimi A Crawford, Spencer K. Peltier, Gail B. Peterson, Jim Sever, Emily E. Shawler and Steven K. Staley.

To see the full Board of Directors list, view Foundation grant recipients and learn more about The Foundation’s programs, visit piquacommunityfoundation.org.

French remembered for his legacy of philanthropy

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The Piqua Community Foundation Board of Directors, staff and friends remember Lt Col Daniel P. French, USAFR, Ret, who passed away on October 13.

Dan’s legacy of “giving until it feels good!” is memorialized by the impact of The French Oil Mill Machinery Company Fund, The Alfred W. French Fund, his generous support of the Pitch Piqua program and the countless ways he supported The Foundation and numerous other charities in our community.

Dan served on The Foundation board from 1996 until his passing, serving as president in 2004 and 2005. A Vietnam veteran, his lifetime of devotion to serving others was recognized with the Piqua Area Chamber of Commerce’s Order of George Award for lifetime civic achievement.

We mourn the loss of one of our community’s most dedicated supporters and will carry his legacy forward in our service to the Piqua community.

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